VAR review: UCL ref got the Mendes-Madueke call right, but it was close - ESPN

Video assistant referee causes controversy every week whether it be the Premier League, Champions League or FA Cup, but how are decisions made and are they correct?

This season, we take a look at the major incidents to examine and explain the process both in terms of VAR protocol and the Laws of the Game.

Andy Davies (@andydaviesref) is a former Select Group referee, with over 12 seasons on the elite list, working across the Premier League and Championship. With extensive experience at the elite level, he has operated within the VAR space in the Premier League and offers a unique insight into the processes, rationale and protocols that are delivered on a Premier League matchday.

Referee: Daniel Siebert
Video Assistant Referee: Bastian Dankert
Incident: Possible penalty to PSG for handball by Bukayo Saka

What Happened: Saka's attempted clearance from his own penalty area resulted in the ball striking both his right and left arm after he mistimed the flight of the ball. PSG were left demanding a penalty kick. The referee waved away the appeals.

VAR Decision: VAR checked and cleared the on-field decision of no penalty.

VAR Review: VAR was quick to confirm the on-field decision of no penalty, deeming that Saka played against himself with his arms in a normal and expected position. Handball Law 12 says it is not a handball offense if a player plays, kicks, or heads the ball and it accidentally ricochets onto their own hand or arm.

Verdict: Correct on-field decision by the referee and a non-intervention from VAR. Law is clear that if a player accidently plays the ball onto their own hand/arm, this is not a handball offense. The only exception to this would be if the ball goes directly into the opponent's goal, as this would